Antwone Fisher is a 2002 American biographical drama film directed by and starring Denzel Washington in his film directing debut. The film is inspired by a true story, with the real Antwone Fisher credited as the screenwriter, and is based on his autobiographical book Finding Fish.
The story follows a sailor named Antwone Fisher, played by Derek Luke, who is prone to violent outbursts and is sent to a naval psychiatrist, played by Denzel Washington, for help. The film explores Fisher's past and his journey toward healing and self-discovery.
The film follows the story of Antwone Fisher, played by Derek Luke, a sailor with a violent history who is sent to see naval psychiatrist Jerome Davenport for help.
Antwone is reluctant to speak at first, but eventually tells the story of his life, which is filled with abuse and abandonment.
The film explores Antwone's past and his journey towards healing and self-discovery. Antwone's relationship with his doctor is a central theme of the movie, and the film also highlights his love affair with Cheryl, played by Joy Bryant.
The film ends with Antwone finding closure and forgiveness with his mother and reuniting with the family he lost. The film is a touching story that offers hope to angry young men struggling to put a harsh past behind them and move on.
Major themes developed in the film include the need to be connected to one’s family and forgiveness. The acting in Antwone Fisher is excellent and the story is emotionally charged. The climax of the film is powerful and emotionally satisfying.
The film received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, with praise for the performances of the cast, particularly Derek Luke and Denzel Washington, and the emotional depth of the story.
During the production of Antwone Fisher, there were a few notable challenges. According to an article from The Morning Call, Denzel Washington, who directed the film, faced a difficult day on set where he was so terrified that he had literally twisted himself into knots.
Additionally, the film explores the relationship between Antwone Fisher and his naval psychiatrist, Dr. Davenport, which shifts from physician-patient to something akin to father and son. This raises questions about professional boundaries, which are discussed in an article from Oxford Academic.
The article addresses questions such as whether physicians should give out their personal phone number or personal address to a patient, whether physicians should allow or encourage patients to call them by their first name, and whether patients should be allowed to ask physicians personal questions.
Despite these challenges, the film was well-received by critics and audiences alike, with praise for the performances of the cast, particularly Derek Luke and Denzel Washington, and the emotional depth of the story.
Director: Denzel Washington
Writer: Antwone Fisher
Genre: Drama
Box Office Gross: $23,367,586
Distributor: Twentieth Century Fox
Genre: Drama
Release Date (Theaters): Jan 1, 2003
Release Date (Streaming): Nov 25, 2015
